Carl William Davis

Carl William Davis “Sonny” passed away on June 1, 2026, peacefully at home. Born in Mobile October 26, 1939, he attended UMS where he made lifelong friends. He played baseball and was Valedictorian of his graduating class. From there he attended Tulane University and completed his college studies and graduated from Spring Hill College. He then joined his family business; Davis Motor Supply located on Holcombe Avenue.

Sonny lived life in the fullest way. He loved playing golf and even made and sold golf clubs at one time. He loved summers at the Bon Secour River house, fishing and enjoying the crabs from crab traps that he placed. Time with his family there was very special to him.

His real joy in life was Mardi Gras. As a matter of fact, he was known as “Mr. Mardi Gras” by many. He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Revelry and was a major active contributor to the Mobile Mardi Gras Association and Mobile Parading Society for many years. He founded the Bayport Parading Society that is still today the first scheduled day parade of the Mardi Gras season each year. He opened many doors for new Mardi Gras Parading Societies in Mobile, Daphne, and Fairhope.

Sonny formed and maintained many friends of all ages. His greatest joys in life were spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his generous love for his grandchildren and numerous friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife of over sixty years, Shannon Waller Davis, parents Carl A. Davis and Pauline K. Davis, and sister Jean Marie Davis Roberts.

He is survived by five children, Carl “Bill” William Davis (Kim), Cynthia Leemarie Lovern (Randy), Shannon “Shayne” Pauline Davis, Lydia Lynne Farber (Paul), and Anthony Joseph Davis (Zulema). Also, six grandchildren: Jonathon (Jercel), Katherine, Sydney Marie, Gavin, Trey, and Stone, along with many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at St. Mary Catholic Church with visitation from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor, 1655 McGill Avenue, Mobile, Alabama 36604. Following interment, a gathering of friends and family will be held at the home of Jacque and Ray Mayhall, 11184 Waller Road West, Theodore, Alabama 36582.